Fast Food Giants Go Big: McDonald's Teams Up with Hot Pot Brand, Pizza Hut Offers Free Meals for 40-Year-Olds

Lisa Bakker · 2026-05-27

The mid-year dining wars are heating up, and two of the biggest names in fast food are pulling out all the stops. McDonald's has dropped a surprising collaboration with Hu Tong, a well-known hot pot BBQ chain, while Pizza Hut is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a deal that's hard to beat—free pizza for anyone who's 40 years old. Here's what you need to know to score these limited-time offers. ### McDonald's x Hu Tong: A Smoky Twist on Fast Food McDonald's is known for its classic burgers and fries, but this new partnership brings a smoky, savory kick to the menu. The collaboration with Hu Tong, a popular Taiwanese BBQ hot pot brand, introduces a limited-edition line of items that blend fast food convenience with upscale grill flavors. - **What's on the menu?** Expect a Hu Tong-inspired burger with a rich, smoky BBQ sauce, grilled beef patty, and crispy onions. There's also a side of seasoned fries with a spicy dipping sauce that mimics the hot pot experience. - **Where to find it?** Available at participating McDonald's locations nationwide, but only for a limited time. Check the app or website for availability near you. - **Price point:** The burger combo runs around $8.99, which is a steal for a gourmet twist on a classic. This isn't just a gimmick—it's a smart move. Hu Tong has a cult following for its premium BBQ meats, and McDonald's is tapping into that crave-worthy flavor. If you've ever wished your fast food could taste like a backyard grill session, this is your chance. ### Pizza Hut's 40th Birthday Bash: Free Pizza for the 40+ Crowd Pizza Hut is turning 40, and they're inviting everyone born in 1984 to the party. For a limited time, if you're 40 years old (or older), you can snag a free medium pizza with any purchase. It's their way of saying thanks to the generation that grew up with their pan pizzas and stuffed crusts. - **How to claim:** Show your ID at the counter or enter your birth date online when ordering. The offer is valid for dine-in, carryout, and delivery. - **The catch?** You'll need to buy a drink or a side to qualify. But hey, a free pizza for just a $2 soda? That's a deal worth celebrating. - **What about everyone else?** Don't worry—Pizza Hut has other deals running, including a 40% discount on large pizzas for all customers. Use code "40YEARS" at checkout. ### Why These Deals Matter for Savvy Shoppers If you're into saving money on food, these promotions are gold. But here's the thing: deals like these don't last forever. McDonald's collaboration is a limited run, and Pizza Hut's free pizza offer ends after the anniversary month. You'll want to act fast. - **Pro tip:** Stack these deals with existing coupons or loyalty points. For example, if you're a Pizza Hut rewards member, you can use your free pizza offer alongside a points redemption for extra toppings. - **Check the fine print:** Some locations may have different pricing or exclusions. Always confirm before you order. ### How to Stay in the Loop The best way to catch these offers is to sign up for email alerts or download the apps. McDonald's and Pizza Hut both send push notifications for flash sales and exclusive deals. You can also follow them on social media for real-time updates. - **McDonald's app:** Offers a free McFlurry with any purchase when you sign up. - **Pizza Hut app:** Gives you a free order of breadsticks on your first order. ### The Bottom Line Whether you're craving a smoky BBQ burger or a free slice of pizza, this mid-year food battle is a win for your wallet. McDonald's and Pizza Hut are going head-to-head, and you get to benefit from the competition. So grab your ID, download those apps, and treat yourself—you've earned it.